I-222, '3A' A.I.Mikoyan/M.I.Gurevich

 

High altitude (stratospheric) interceptor of the I-220 line, powered with AM-39B-1 engine. Exhaust gases from left collector were used to drive new TK-300B supercharger. Aircraft was driven by special high-altitude propeller. All efforts were made to achieve highest possible altitude. 

Despite of such a 'record intentions', it was a well-equipped fighter. Pair of synchronized 20mm cannons, armored pilot's seat, armored glass plates in front of pilot and behind him, soft fuel tanks and high-altitude pressurized cockpit made it one of most advanced piston engine fighters. 

I-222 was ready in April 1944, and took off on May 7 same year. It set series of records (see table), but the natural payback was very high landing speed - 169km/h. 

 

Predecessor		I-221, 2A
Development		I-224, 4A